How to Sell a Boat Privately
How to Sell a Boat Privately — 8 Steps
- 1Locate the HIN — the hull identification number (HIN) is a 12-character code stamped or molded into the transom (rear) of the hull on the starboard (right) side. It's required on all boats manufactured after 1972.
- 2Determine your registration type — boats under 26 feet use state boat registration (through state DMV or Wildlife agency). Boats 26 feet and over may need USCG documentation (federal title) — check with the USCG National Vessel Documentation Center.
- 3Clear any liens — contact your lender for a payoff and lien release letter if the boat was financed. Buyers cannot register a boat with an undisclosed lien.
- 4Gather vessel documentation — current registration card, title (if state-titled), USCG documentation (if applicable), trailer title (if included in sale), engine serial numbers.
- 5Price the vessel — use NADA Guides (boats), BUCValu, or local dealer comps. Factor in trailer condition, engine hours, and service history.
- 6Complete a boat bill of sale — record HIN, vessel make/year/length, engine make/model/serial number, trailer VIN (if included), sale price, sale date, and both parties' full legal names and addresses.
- 7Sign the title/registration — seller endorses the back of the state registration or title. For USCG-documented vessels, complete USCG Form CG-1340 (Bill of Sale).
- 8Notify the state — the buyer must re-register within 15–60 days (varies by state). Seller should file a release of ownership with the state boat registration agency.
Boat & Vessel Transfer Notes
- Always record the HIN, not just the registration number — they are different
- Jet skis and personal watercraft (PWC) also use HINs and require state registration
- Trailers have their own VIN and may need a separate bill of sale and title transfer
- Some states require a boat inspection or hull ID verification before registration transfer
📋 Bundle Your Boat Bill of Sale with Complete Documentation
BillOfSaleNow's Complete plan ($29) includes your signed boat bill of sale, state transfer instructions, and a buyer closing packet — the full paperwork set for state registration and USCG documentation transfers.
Get Complete Boat Sale Packet ($29) →Frequently Asked Questions
What information goes on a boat bill of sale?▾
A boat bill of sale must include: the hull identification number (HIN), vessel make, model, year, and length; engine make, model, and serial number; trailer VIN (if included); full legal names and addresses of buyer and seller; sale price (or "gift" if applicable); sale date; and both signatures. For USCG-documented vessels, use USCG Form CG-1340.
Do I need a notary for a boat bill of sale?▾
Most states do not require notarization for private boat bill of sale transactions. However, USCG Form CG-1340 (used for documented vessels 26 feet and over) must be notarized. Some states also require notarization for large vessel title transfers. Check your state's boat registration requirements before completing the sale.
How does a buyer register a boat they bought privately?▾
The buyer takes the signed bill of sale and endorsed title/registration to their state's boat registration agency (often the DMV, Wildlife agency, or DNR) and pays the registration fee plus any applicable use tax. Registration windows are typically 15–60 days depending on the state. For USCG-documented vessels, the buyer submits Form CG-1340 to the National Vessel Documentation Center.